Piercing parts of your body have become increasingly popular, and the options are limitless—virtually every part of the skin can and has been pierced. One of the more popular options is the belly button, or navel, piercing.

The issue of body piercing is presenting no small challenge to many a contemporary parent. For what has long been an issue of only ear piercing and limited to women, has now been extended to men and to almost every imaginable part of the body capable of being pierced.

There are several emotions you may experience when you’re about to get a fresh piercing: anxiety, fear, excitement, joy. But it’s rare that entering a piercing studio induces a sense of tranquility.

Planning for a piercing can be a dubious task, mainly because everyone has an opinion. Your work bestie complains her ear cartilage hurts every day, while a frenemy on Instagram raves about her nipple piercing.

I’ve had my fair share of beauty fails, including bad hair colors and dodgy piercings (think: accidental pumpkin orange hair and belly piercing at 16). Although it seems that my hair has reached adulthood, my spontaneous piercings still have a long way to go.

Belly button piercings can be downright sexy, but they can also be problematic. As with any type of body modification, it’s wise to do your research and educate yourself as much as possible before making a decision.

When was the last time you cleaned your nose or belly button ring? If your answer is, “I can’t remember,” it’s definitely time for you to learn how to clean body jewelry so you don’t get an infection!